Brush Clearance: Berkeley vs Hayward
How do brush clearance rules compare between Berkeley, CA and Hayward, CA?
Berkeley and Hayward have similar restriction levels.
Berkeley, CA
Alameda County
Properties in the Berkeley Hills VHFHSZ must maintain 100 feet of defensible space per PRC 4291. Berkeley Fire runs annual inspections and non-compliance triggers abatement at owner cost.
View full Berkeley rules →Hayward, CA
Alameda County
Properties in the Hayward hills Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone must maintain 100 feet of defensible space under California Public Resources Code 4291.
View full Hayward rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Berkeley | Hayward |
|---|---|---|
| Defensible space | 100 feet (PRC 4291) | - |
| Zone 0 | 0-5 feet ember-resistant | Ember-resistant, no combustibles |
| Inspections | Annual, starting April | Annual, late spring |
| Non-compliance | Abatement billed to owner | - |
| Applies to | All VHFHSZ parcels | VHFHSZ parcels |
| Requirement | - | 100 ft defensible space |
| Grass height | - | Under 4 inches |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Berkeley FAQ
What if my lot is less than 100 feet from the neighbor?
You must still clear to your property line and coordinate with neighbors. Berkeley Fire can require reciprocal clearance and will cite both parcels if vegetation threatens structures.
Can I keep my mature oak trees?
Yes, native oaks are encouraged, but lower limbs must be pruned to 6 feet above ground (or 1/3 tree height), and no branches may overhang within 10 feet of the chimney or roof.
Hayward FAQ
How do I know if I am in the VHFHSZ?
Check the CAL FIRE FHSZ Viewer or call Hayward Fire Prevention at (510) 583-4900.
What happens if I do not clear?
The city issues a notice; failure to comply results in forced abatement billed to the property owner via a lien.
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